Texas Judge Considers Court Via Streaming Amid COVID-19 Closures

Texas Constitution states that Texas courts must remain open to the public, but as the coronavirus continues to change operations, more hearings are moving to telephone/video conference and judicial leaders are considering ways to allow the public to listen and watch.

As courts across Texas move many proceedings to telephone and video conferencing, there’s a discussion behind the scenes about how to keep the courts open to the public.

Some essential proceedings are moving forward as normal. But in nonessential matters, which will either be postponed or handled through electronic hearings, questions are arising about how the public can find out about those hearings, and how they can dial in to listen.

“There’s a general provision in the Texas Constitution that says Texas courts should be open. There’s nothing specific in the U.S. Constitution, but it’s really understood that court proceedings need to be open to the public, unless there’s a reason to close them,” said Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht.

Hecht said the high court is working to put out rules to ensure that electronic hearings remain open.

“I’m confident that there will be really good solutions. It will improve court transparency, even going forward, after the virus is gone,” he said.

Rob has been recognized in Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in 2016 through 2020, and recently The National Advocates recognized Rob as one of the Top 40 Under 40.  He can be reached by calling 214.526.5234 or email at rmcangus@vernerbrumley.com.  Mr. McAngus received his bachelor’s degree cum laude and master’s degree from Baylor University and graduated cum laude from the Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University.